For more than four decades, the travel industry has evolved in remarkable ways; from handwritten tickets and printed brochures to instant online bookings and digital itineraries. Yet despite the rapid pace of change, one thing has remained constant: the value of trusted, local travel expertise.

At Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, that personal approach to travel has remained at the heart of the business through every era of change.

The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a major turning point for Australian travellers. International holidays, once considered a luxury, became increasingly accessible as airfares grew more competitive and travel opportunities expanded. Families, couples and solo travellers began exploring the world in greater numbers, often relying on experienced travel agents to guide them through passports, visas and complex itineraries.

During this time, travel planning was deeply personal. Clients would sit down face-to-face with their travel consultant, discussing dream destinations, budgets and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Trust and professional knowledge were central to every booking; values that continue to define Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant today.

As the industry moved into the late 1990s and early 2000s, the arrival of the internet transformed how people researched and booked travel. Email replaced fax machines, online schedules became accessible and digital ticketing emerged, creating greater convenience for travellers. While technology streamlined many parts of the process, the role of experienced travel professionals became even more important; helping clients navigate airline changes, interpret information and create seamless travel experiences tailored to their individual needs.

The following decades saw travel become increasingly experienced-driven. Travellers began seeking meaningful moments and personalised adventures rather than simply ticking destinations off a list. Social media inspired new journeys, while smartphones changed the way people planned, booked and shared their travels.

With more choice came more complexity, and the importance of knowledgeable, local guidance only continued to grow.

More recently, global disruptions and changing travel requirements have highlighted just how valuable professional support can be. Travellers are now prioritising flexibility, reassurance and expert advice more than ever before. Throughout these changes, businesses like Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant have continued supporting clients every step of the way, providing clarity, advocacy and peace of mind when it matters most.

Looking back across four decades, the story of travel is one of innovation, connection and unforgettable experiences. While technology and trends will continue to evolve, the heart of great travel planning remains unchanged: understanding people, listening to their goals and helping turn travel dreams into reality.

As Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant celebrates its longstanding place within the region’s travel community, one thing is clear; trusted local advice and personalised service continue to matter more than ever.

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Burdekin Shire Council is encouraging businesses from across North Queensland and beyond to take advantage of the exciting investment opportunities now available in the Burdekin, with the Ayr Industrial Precinct nearing completion and a new development incentive policy adopted to support business growth.

The Ayr Industrial Precinct represents a major milestone in the region’s economic development, offering fully serviced, competitively priced industrial land in a strategic location ideal for manufacturing, logistics, trade services and emerging industries.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the time has never been better for businesses to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Burdekin.

“The Ayr Industrial Precinct provides the kind of well-connected, serviced industrial land that businesses are actively looking for,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.  

“We’re seeing growing interest from across the region, and we’re confident the Burdekin offers the right conditions for long-term business success.”

Stage 1 lots are now available from $50 per square metre plus GST, with a variety of lot sizes and flexible configurations designed to meet different industry needs.

Mayor Dalle Cort said Council is committed to supporting both new investment and the expansion of existing businesses.

“Council understands that development costs can be a barrier, particularly for businesses looking to scale up or relocate,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.  

“That’s why the new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives is so important - it gives developers and business owners a transparent, streamlined pathway to seek reductions in fees and infrastructure charges.”

The new Economic Stimulus Policy reinforces Council’s strategy to foster innovation, attract investment, and support long-term economic sustainability in line with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030.

“We want businesses to know that the Burdekin is open for business — and that we’re here to work with them,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“With affordable industrial land, strong infrastructure, and a Council committed to growth, the Burdekin is an ideal location for businesses planning their next move.”

Businesses interested in securing land or learning more about the development incentives available are encouraged to download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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With Stacey Arlott from REMAX Select

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With 26 years of experience and a results-driven reputation, Stacey Arlott has firmly established herself as one of Queensland’s most accomplished real estate professionals.  

She is widely recognised, receiving great industry acclaim, but prides herself most on the trust she has garnered from the community she serves in Mackay.  

In 2021 Stacey reached a huge milestone in her career, being declared the number one agent in Australia by Real Estate Business’s dealmaker ranking - the first in Mackay to receive such an accolade. The win occurred during a volatile time for the market, with COVID-19 challenges failing to knock Stacey off-course.  

What sets Stacey apart is not only her consistent sales performance, but also her disciplined work ethic and ability to foster long-term client relationships.

Her career is marked by a series of accolades, including the REMAX Lifetime Achievement Award (2024) and induction into the REMAX Hall of Fame (2020).

From 2022 to 2025, she has consistently ranked among the Top 10 agents in Queensland and Top 20 nationally - an indication of her ongoing push for excellence in a dynamic and demanding market.

Beyond industry recognition, Stacy’s success is strongly validated by client feedback. She has earned multiple “Agent of the Year” titles through RateMyAgent, including four consecutive wins for East Mackay (2021–2024) and the broader Mackay region in 2023.  

These consistently high ratings across major platforms reflect a reputation built on transparency, communication, and results.

Having previously owned and operated her own agency and served as REIQ Zone Chairperson, Stacey does more than transactional sales.  

She brings a comprehensive understanding of the real estate landscape, from regulatory frameworks to market strategy; a depth of knowledge that allows her to guide clients with confidence through every stage of the buying and selling process.

Known for her approachable style, Stacey’s secret to success is communication. She prioritises keeping clients informed to ensure they feel supported throughout their property journey. Her business is driven by referrals and repeat clients, a testament to the trust she builds and the outcomes she delivers.  

remax.com.au/select/stacey-arlott

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Stacey Arlott – Elite Real Estate Agent

Turning 60 might prompt some people to slow down. For award-winning real estate agent Stacey Arlott, it simply marks another milestone in a remarkable career defined by resilience, passion and results.

Celebrating her 60th birthday on the 4^th of March, Stacey brings more than two decades of industry experience to the table – a career built not only on strong outcomes but on genuine relationships with the people she serves.

This year also marks Stacey’s 26th year in real estate, a journey that began with a simple suggestion from a friend. At the time, Stacey had already built a strong foundation in people-focused roles, working as a hairdresser before managing fashion and jewellery stores in Mackay.

Those early roles proved invaluable.

“You learn to listen to people,” she said.  

“I’ve always had empathy and compassion and great listening skills, and I was also a great salesperson. It was probably just a natural progression that I went into sales and then into real estate.”

Since then, Stacey has become one of the region’s most recognisable names in property, working under the banner of REMAX while essentially running her own business within the system.

Real estate, she explains, is far from routine.

“Everything can change on a daily basis,” she said.  

“Mondays are extremely busy because you’re doing all your vendor feedback, your contracts and following up from the weekend’s open homes.”

And then there are Saturdays. These are the days Stacey calls “game day.”

“They’re the days we take our properties to the market and the days we’re hoping to secure contracts for our sellers.”

Her drive and consistency have earned her some of the industry’s highest honours, including a national award, REB Dealmakers for Australia in 2021, the only person to have achieved this regionally. In addition, #1 REMAX in Australia consistently, the Lifetime Achievement Award (2024), Diamond Club Member (2021–2024) and multiple RateMyAgent Agent of the Year awards for Mackay. These achievements sit alongside her long-standing recognition in the REMAX Hall of Fame, Platinum and Titan Clubs, and years of top-ranking results in Queensland and nationally.

“To be ranked number one in Australia was huge,” she said.

“I’m not afraid to push for the best results and speak honestly in negotiations. I persist where others might give up, which is why I consistently achieve strong outcomes.

“As women, we can sometimes underestimate our abilities or wait until we feel completely ready before stepping forward, when in reality growth often comes from taking opportunities even when we feel uncertain.”

She also acknowledges that success can come with its challenges.

“Not everyone will support your success, and that’s okay. The key is to stay focused on your goals, trust your instincts and surround yourself with people who genuinely want to see you succeed.”

While real estate remains a passion, Stacey admits there is now something else competing for her heart – her grandchildren.

“I have a passion for real estate,” she said, “but it has been overtaken by the love I now have for my three beautiful grandchildren.”

With more travel on the horizon and a career that shows no signs of slowing, Stacey’s story is one driven by purpose, persistence and heart.

At 60, she isn’t closing a chapter.

She’s simply turning the page.

Q: Describe yourself in three words:

A: Fearless, Tenacious and Unstoppable.

remax.com.au/select/stacey-arlott

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Dr Kim McPherson
Director & Veterinarian

How does success feel for you?

Rewarding. We’ve just always tried to be focused on supporting the valley. From the very first year we always supported Gargett rodeo, Finch Hatton Show and the schools; it’s all been about the community.

What does the day to day look like for you now?

I'm full time still- but I have Tuesdays off to play golf. I love my golf. One of the big things that I enjoy doing at the moment is mentoring new grads. The James Cook University graduates are really good, and we're all about supporting them. It’s a tough job, and we used to just be thrown in the deep end. But these days, we’re much more aware of the repercussions of the pressures of vet science and so we want to support them to enter this great industry and look after it. Mentoring the young ones keeps me young.

Where did your love for animals come from?

I grew up with that great farm life, first in Narrabri and then in Longreach, around lambs and calves and piglets and chickens. That led both me and my identical twin sister into it, because we just enjoyed animals and really wanted to be farmers. We were always fascinated with them. Dad was pretty much a butcher, and we would look at all the viscera; it's just one of those things, like how little boys are often interested in trucks. We were interested in the ins and outs of animals.

What advice would you give others?

Do the best you can do. Don’t be half hearted about things- try and do things to the best of your ability, whatever that is, and be proud of that effort.

Dr Ben Brightman
Director & Veterinarian

What led you into this career?

I always wanted to be a vet ever since I was in primary school. I grew up in Mackay with a family of a cane and cattle farmers, so I always had that love of animals and livestock. My grandfather, on the other side of the family was in human Orthopaedics. So I guess I sort of just ended up mixing those two interests together, of animals and medicine.

What have been some of your personal highlights at Valley Veterinary Surgery?

Every day there's a different highlight. Mostly getting to be do some really cool surgeries and help pets that otherwise wouldn't have been able to be helped, bringing services to Mackay that just weren't an option for clients in the past. It’s also really cool to be able to offer procedures that people in the past had to drive to Brisbane or Townsville to get done, making that access to care so much easier.

What makes Valley Veterinary Surgery special?

We're family owned. A lot of clinics are being bought by corporate companies, whereas in ours, the owners of the business are working in the practice. So we're there and we're actually making sure that our patients and clients are getting the very best.

Chloe Watson
Director & Practice Operations Manager

What advice would you give to your younger self

Never discount the unexpected, because I definitely never thought I would not be a full-time vet nurse. But now, I love management. I love helping the clinic. I love helping staff, and that's something I never, ever expected.

What career path brought you here?

I wanted to be a vet when I was a kid. That was what I always wanted to be. But when I went to university I didn't get into vet studies. I did zoology for eight months, but I realised I just wanted to get into the workforce. I was really not enjoying studying full time. I had done a week of work experience at Valley Veterinary Surgery during Year 11 and Kim had offered me a school-based traineeship, because she saw that I work really hard. So later, when I realised university wasn’t for me, my mum reminded me that Kim believed in me, and I applied for some nursing positions- and just happened to get a job with Valley Veterinary Surgery.

Do you have any pets yourself?

I have a cat called Wendy. We’re a one cat household. I tried to bring another cat home, and she was not super impressed with that! My sisters both have dogs and my parents have chickens, so there are always plenty of animals around.

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With Kim McPherson, Ben Brightman and Chloe Watson from Valley Veterinary Surgery

From humble beginnings, Valley Veterinary Surgery has spent 25 years growing into a trusted network of family-run clinics, supporting animal-lovers on their best days and worst, and delivering next-level care to pets, livestock and native wildlife.

It all began with a single branch, opened in 2001 by Veterinary Surgeon Kim McPherson and her then-husband Brad Pullen, when their eldest daughter was just seven-months-old.

“I never planned on being a business owner, but it just happened, out of true necessity. We were going to be cane farmers, but the cane was in a real crisis,” Kim said.

Kim and Brad identified the potential for a vet surgery in Walkerston.

It was a risk that depended on the community giving them a chance.

“We were so appreciative of anyone who came to see us,” Kim shared.

Now, Valley Veterinary Surgery has 3 fully-staffed clinics.

“It's unbelievable to look back now and think where we began. It was such a small beginning. We didn't do anything fancy,” Kim reminisced.

“We just said: Let's do this. Let's listen to people, try and help, give good service... And you know, it's just happened.

“We barely had a holiday in six years when we first set up - but they were good times. It was really rewarding to be focused on supporting the Valley. Our girls grew up amongst after-hours emergencies, and sacrifices were endured, but I am so proud of them, one now a doctor and one about to graduate vet science.”

As demand grew, expansion followed, and Valley Veterinary Surgery opened clinics in central Mackay and Marian.

Ten years into the journey, Kim and Brad separated, but the business continued to thrive with his support.

Kim expresses gratitude for Brad’s founding role: “I wouldn't have done this on my own. We were a unit.”

In 2021, Brad’s shares in the business were taken over by Veterinarian Ben Brightman and Vet Nurse Chloe Watson.

Ben and Chloe were already on staff, dedicated to the team and to maintaining the clinic’s core family values.

Ben had grown up with a dream of working with animals. Valley Veterinary Surgery cared for his family pets, and Ben realised it was exactly the kind of clinic he wanted to work for.

“It was just always a great community-minded family vet clinic. They really cared about our pets and our livestock and wanted to do the best thing for us. You had that special relationship with them.”

Chloe was a nurse for Valley Veterinary Surgery between 2012-2018, before moving to the UK. When she returned in 2020, she became head nurse and took on clinic management.

“I never thought I would be a business owner,” Chloe said.

“I never thought it was an option for a vet nurse or a practice manager. But Kim mentioned it to me and said, with my work ethic, it’s something I’d be good at.

“I found myself thinking about it all the time, after that.”

Despite the business’s growth, a close-knit family-feel endures, with senior staff from day one now mentoring recent graduates.

An upcoming milestone for the business includes the addition of a CT scanner, the first between Bundaberg and Townsville.

Day to day, it’s all about making a difference in the community, treating every pet like it’s their own, and supporting owners on their best days and their worst.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

Kim: A client really appreciating our effort.

Ben: The people in the community.

Chloe: Training the young nurses.

valleyvet.com.au

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Methods of Sale: Choosing the Right Path in Today’s Property Market

When it comes to selling a home, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Behind every successful sale is a carefully chosen strategy - one that reflects not only the property itself, but also the market conditions, buyer behaviour, and the seller’s goals.

This month, we explore the most common methods of sale and what they really mean for homeowners navigating today’s real estate landscape.

Understanding the Selling Strategy

At its core, selling property is about one thing: discovering what the market is truly willing to pay.

While that may sound straightforward, the reality is far more nuanced. Pricing too high can deter buyers before they even step through the door. Pricing too low may leave money on the table. That’s why selecting the right method of sale is just as important as presentation and marketing.

Each approach, whether it’s private treaty, or a no-price campaign, creates a different dynamic, influencing buyer behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.

Auction & ‘No Price’ Campaigns: Creating Competition Without a Ceiling

Few methods generate as much energy as an auction, where the focus shifts from setting a figure to discovering what the market is truly prepared to pay in a transparent time driven environment.

By removing a fixed price guide, this strategy encourages buyers to engage more openly, often creating stronger competition. In the case of auction, all bids are visible, giving buyers clarity and confidence while fuelling momentum.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) campaigns take a quieter approach, with offers submitted privately, but still benefit from the same sense of deadline-driven urgency.

A defined end date, whether it’s auction day or an EOI close, creates a powerful trigger for action. Buyers know they have a limited window, which can lead to more decisive behaviour and, in some cases, premium results.

However, this approach isn’t without its considerations. The process can feel intense, particularly in a public auction setting, and there is no absolute guarantee of a sale if expectations aren’t met. Campaign costs are slightly higher, reflecting the level of marketing required to generate strong interest.

‘For Sale’ or ‘New to Market’ also removes price ceilings and pre-determined value on a property, however there is no ‘transparency’ when negotiating.  In a tight market this will often lead to ‘multiple offers’ from buyers, who often feel like they are in a ‘Dutch Auction’

Private Treaty: Control and Flexibility

On the other end of the spectrum is the private treaty method - often referred to as a traditional “for sale” approach.

Here, the property is listed with a set price or price range, and buyers submit offers privately. This creates a more relaxed environment, allowing sellers to consider offers over time rather than making decisions under the pressure of a public bidding process.

One of the biggest advantages of private treaty is control. Sellers can negotiate on their own terms, adjust pricing if needed, and take the time to find the right buyer.

That said, this method can sometimes lack urgency. Without a clear deadline, buyers may take a “wait and see” approach, which can extend the time a property spends on the market. Pricing also becomes critical - if it doesn’t align with buyer expectations, interest can quickly fade.

When priced strategically, however, private treaty remains a reliable and widely used method, particularly for properties in more stable or balanced markets.

The Role of Pricing Strategy

Even in campaigns where a price is displayed, the goal isn’t simply to list a number - it’s to position the property effectively.

A well-considered price should act as a “take notice” signal, capturing attention and presenting the property as compelling value compared to others on the market. Done well, this encourages inspections, builds momentum, and ultimately drives competition.

Get it wrong, and the campaign can stall before it even begins.

Finding the Right Fit

So, which method is best?

Ultimately, the right method of sale is about more than just choosing a process - it’s about aligning your strategy with your goals, your property, and the realities of the current market.

At TAYLORS, our Property Specialists bring both experience and insight to every campaign, guiding you through the decision-making process with clarity and confidence. We take the time to understand your unique situation, ensuring the approach we recommend is tailored not only to your property, but also to the conditions at play and the outcome you want to achieve.

Our team is here to help you navigate the options and make informed decisions every step of the way.

With Rachael & Tyson Griffiths from Reef Side Buyers

Founders of Reef Side Buyers' Agent Rachael and Tyson Griffiths are a dynamic and forward-thinking team, abreast of the market and analytics, with a people-first approach. In 2025 they took 20 years of hands-on experience across building, property, and long-term investment and used it to launch their own company – all while raising a young family.

Already, the company is thriving, with the Griffiths established in the community as go-to advocates for property buyers, acting with insight, strategy and integrity to broker next-level deals for their clients.

Though going into business with your partner is not always for the faint-hearted, Rachael and Tyson went in with confidence and made family business look easy.

The pair complement one another, combining different strengths but the same shared vision to put their clients in a position to make confident decisions and negotiate outcomes that wouldn’t have been possible without representation.

Rachael is the people person. She focuses on relationships, client management, and operations – a highly detail-oriented and supportive presence keeping every client informed throughout the process. The strong relationships she builds – both with clients and local agents – often open doors to opportunities that aren’t publicly available.

Tyson’s strengths sit on the analytical side – breaking down the numbers, researching market trends, and identifying the right opportunities. He sources both on-market and off-market properties, assesses value, and structures negotiation strategies based on data and timing.

Everything they do, they do with integrity.

“We saw too many buyers overpaying, buying the wrong property, or missing out entirely because they didn’t understand how the local market actually works," Tyson said.

“The Whitsundays isn’t a 'plug and play' market—you’ve got lifestyle buyers, investors, short-term rental dynamics, and a lot of off-market deals. If you’re not connected, you’re already behind.”

Whilst building their business, Rachael and Tyson have seen an evolution in the way people buy.

“The biggest shift has been moving from people not really understanding what a buyers’ agent does to now actively seeking one out before they even start looking,” Rachael explained.

“A standout milestone has been consistently securing off-market and pre-market opportunities for clients—those are the deals that change outcomes, not the ones everyone is competing for online.

“Another highlight is seeing repeat clients and referrals grow. That’s usually the clearest sign you’re actually delivering results, not just talking about them.”

Those clients include investors seeking strategic, well-timed deals, as well as commercial clients and first-time buyers looking for structured, guided purchases.

Rachael and Tyson moved to the Whitsundays to give their kids a beautiful childhood, outdoors amongst some of the most stunning nature the country has to offer.

“We spend weekends fishing, camping, and spending time on the water,” Tyson said.

“That’s typical for the Whitsundays, but it’s a big part of why we chose to live here in the first place.”

Now, they now help others on similar journeys, seeking their dream homes by the sea.

If your business had a theme song, what would it be?

Thunderstruck – AC/DC.

What’s the most unusual place you’ve had a business discussion?

The bathtub.

What’s your proudest moment working together?

Building the business from the ground up while raising a young family.

reefsidebuyersagent.com.au

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Working with your partner isn’t for everyone—but for some couples, it just works.

Running a business together means you’re not only sharing life outside of work, but also the wins, challenges, and day-to-day decisions that come with building something of your own. It takes patience, clear communication, and a good sense of humour—but it can also be incredibly rewarding.

Of course, it comes with its challenges. There’s the balancing act between work and home life, knowing when to switch off (or at least trying to), and making sure each person has their own space to contribute. But on the flip side, there’s a level of trust and understanding that’s hard to replicate in any other business relationship.

For John and Paula Mottin, working together has been part of their story for over a decade. Since 2010, they’ve teamed up in rural property sales, combining their skills and building a strong reputation in the industry along the way.

In 2014, they took a big step forward and purchased a share in McCathies Real Estate T/A Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. It was a natural progression—moving from working in the business to helping shape its future. Then in 2021, they went all in, purchasing the entire business and taking full ownership. Since then, their knowledge and services have expanded well beyond rural sales.

Today, their business covers residential, rural and commercial sales, along with property management and strata management. What makes working together successful for couples like John and Paula is understanding each other’s strengths and backing one another. There’s a shared drive to succeed, but also a shared pride in what they’ve built together.

At the end of the day, being in business as a couple isn’t just about work—it’s about building something meaningful together. And for those who can make it work, it can be one of the most rewarding partnerships there is.

Nutrienharcourts.net

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In a world where everything from business to home life relies on staying connected, reliable internet is no longer a nice-to-have. It is essential. That’s why the Hinchinbrook region is getting a major upgrade.

Through a new partnership with Aussie Broadband, Logilytics is now delivering local NBN services across Hinchinbrook, including high-speed fibre where available. The result is faster speeds, stronger reliability and, importantly, support from a team that understands the needs of the local community.

For businesses, dependable internet underpins daily operations, from processing payments and running cloud-based systems to safeguarding data and communicating with customers. At home, it shapes how families stream, study, work and unwind. When it works well, everything flows. When it does not, it quickly becomes a source of frustration.

Logilytics is focused on removing that frustration. Rather than offering generic, one-size-fits-all solutions, the team works closely with each customer to tailor a setup that suits their specific needs. From choosing the right plan to ensuring WiFi and networks are properly configured, everything is handled with care and local know-how, so customers can rely on a setup that performs when it matters most.

As owner Ben Barbi explains, “People just want their stuff to work. They don’t want to have to lean on IT every time they want to do something. That’s our passion - technology that works.”

Beyond internet services, Logilytics also supports businesses and residents with WiFi, phone systems, cloud migration, cyber security and hardware setup, providing an end-to-end technology solution.

With fast internet, fast support and a local team behind it, Hinchinbrook now has access to connectivity that keeps pace with modern life.

What’s life like outside of work?

“I've got a small family, so we like to do things together. I’m also guitarist and an Air Force Cadets instructor.”

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With Liquaforce

For more than three decades, LiquaForce has been a pioneering force in North Queensland’s agricultural sector, delivering innovative liquid fertiliser solutions tailored to sugarcane, horticulture, and broadacre farming. Originally established as a trusted local partner, the company entered a new phase of growth in May 2024 through its partnership with RLF AgTech. This collaboration combined LiquaForce’s deep regional expertise with RLF AgTech’s global research capabilities, significantly expanding manufacturing capacity and broadening the product portfolio.

At the core of LiquaForce’s value proposition is a focus on efficiency and productivity. Its liquid application systems enable growers to cover substantially more ground – up to 60 hectares per day – compared to approximately 8 hectares using traditional granular methods. Among its key products are PlantStarter, a liquid fertiliser formulated to kickstart crop development in a wide range of conditions, including cold and wet soils, by promoting rapid root and shoot growth, and LQ Ratooner, a high-analysis, single-application solution that incorporates organic carbon to stabilise nitrogen release and enhance nutrient uptake.

Beyond its product offering, LiquaForce delivers comprehensive on-farm support. This includes specialised application equipment, professional contracting services, and on-farm storage solutions designed to reduce supply chain risk and improve operational efficiency. By integrating advanced chemistry with practical logistics, the company continues to support a more resilient and progressive agricultural sector.

LiquaForce’s manufacturing hubs in Queensland and Western Australia now produce RLF AgTech products in-house for national distribution, replacing previous third-party manufacturing arrangements. While LiquaForce has strong roots in the sugarcane industry, RLF AgTech is leveraging this foundation to expand into broader markets, including broadacre cropping, cotton, and horticulture. At the same time, RLF AgTech is introducing its higher-margin advanced crop nutrition products into LiquaForce’s established customer network.

Together, RLF AgTech and LiquaForce share a clear objective: to transform Australian agriculture by combining precision liquid nutrition with global research expertise, ultimately improving farmer profitability while advancing environmental sustainability.

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With Steve & Toni Ward from Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training

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Steve and Toni Ward have spent thirty years turning their lifelong passion for the ocean into a string of successful businesses. This year, the pair dived even deeper into the Whitsunday water scene, building on their legacy with a new venture: Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training.

Having owned and operated businesses like Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Daydream Island Watersports, Whitsunday Parasailing and Island Jet Boating, the husband-and-wife duo are now helping locals and visitors alike gain not only their marine licences but also something far more valuable: confidence.

“We don’t just teach people to pass a test,” Steve says.

“We teach practical skills for operating safely in real conditions. What makes us unique is the level of real experience behind the training.”

Steve has lived in the Whitsundays, championing marine tourism for over 30 years, owning and operating several successful watersports businesses. With experience that spans vessel operations, safety management, and training, passing on his skills to the next generation of boaties feels like a natural progression. 

“Mentoring people on the water has always been a passion.” Steve shared.

“What we both love most is seeing someone go from nervous to capable in just a day. It’s incredibly rewarding—it’s helping someone build skills for life.”

At Steve’s side is his business partner and wife, Toni, who balances his industry knowledge with strong business and operational experience through a background in administration, customer service, and business management.

“We have very complementary roles.” Toni said. 

“Steve is hands-on, delivering training and assessments with a strong focus on safety and real-world experience. I manage the business side—bookings, systems, marketing, and customer communication.

“Our biggest strength is clear communication and shared goals. Like any partnership, balancing work and personal life can be a challenge, but we keep things grounded by staying focused on the bigger picture and supporting each other.” 

Highlights of Whitsunday Boat & Jetski’s evolution have been becoming an authorised BoatSafe provider under Allstate Boat Licensing, bringing a locally focused training service to the region they love, and being met with massive enthusiasm.

Outside of work, the 'Wardys' – Toni, Steve and four big kids – have always been all about action and adventure. 

“We love anything on the water—boating, jet skiing, kitesurfing, wing foiling—you name it,” they said.

“When we’re not out on the water, we’re usually in the dirt on the motorbikes, enjoying enduro weekends and a bit of adventure riding. At the end of the day, it’s all about family time and making the most of the Whitsundays lifestyle.” 

That love of the Whitsundays is poured into everything Steve and Toni do – and it makes them the perfect teachers. Their courses are built on passion, integrity, and a drive to contribute to safe boating by providing high-quality training and a positive, supportive experience for every student. 

Q: What advice would you give to others looking to build amazing teams?

Our mantra has always been 'Your vibe attracts your tribe.'

 Never aim to be the smartest person in the room and always be willing to learn something new.

 Respect each other’s strengths, stay aligned on your goals, and don’t let small issues grow into bigger ones. 

 A strong team is built on trust, accountability, and mutual support. 

Q: Describe your partner’s personality in three words:

Steve: Driven, knowledgeable, dependable 

Toni: Organised, supportive, motivated 

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Astrid And Reece Finlay From Fly High Rope Access

High above the ground, suspended by rope and precision, Reece Finlay works where most people simply cannot go. But his true anchor is his wife and business partner, Astrid.

Together, the couple launched Fly High Rope Access, a locally owned company delivering rope access services across Mackay and the wider region. The business was born not just from skill and opportunity, but from a simple family goal.

“We wanted him home with the kids,” Astrid said. “I was trying to find a way for him to leave his job on offshore oil and gas platforms so we could build something better for our family.”

Before that, Reece had been working FIFO out of Mackay, where he met Astrid in 2017. “We actually met on a dating app when we were both working in Darwin,” she laughs.

What followed was a whirlwind chapter of life. Less than a year into their relationship, the couple were preparing for their first child.

“Ten months into the relationship I was saying I wasn’t ready for kids, and two weeks later I was pregnant with our first,” Astrid said.

When COVID arrived around the time their child was born, the couple relocated to Mackay after Reece was offered the chance to return to a previous job in the region. What was meant to be a temporary post, slowly began to feel like home.

“Every time we thought we might leave Mackay, something happened that kept us here,” Astrid said.

Originally from Brazil and raised in France, Astrid had come to Australia to study and spent the next ten years of her career working as a sound engineer in the music industry and travelling the country. Despite her global background, she said Mackay’s lifestyle and community quickly won her over.

And when the idea of starting a rope access business emerged, it unfolded rapidly.

“Within six weeks we went from just him to having ten people on board, and six months later we had twenty.”

Today, Reece leads operations on-site while Astrid manages the often-unseen side of the company, coordinating logistics, marketing, payroll and administration.

The company specialises in rope access solutions for challenging environments, supporting trades and industries across commercial and industrial sites.

“Our motto is that we go places where others can’t reach,” Astrid explained.

From high-rise maintenance and inspections to cleaning and signage installation, the method provides a flexible alternative to traditional access equipment such as scaffolding or lifts. The company’s technicians undergo internationally recognised training through IRATA standards and follow strict safety protocols and risk management procedures.

“One thing we don’t do, is compromise our standards,” Astrid said.

“At the end of the day, we just want everyone to come home safe, and that is our biggest priority.”

While the business continues to expand across Mackay, the Whitsundays and the Bowen Basin, the couple remain focused on building something meaningful for their family and community.

“Working with each other as husband and wife is tough at times, but we communicate and work through it together.

“We also quickly learnt to set boundaries between work and family,” she said.

For the Finlay’s, success comes down to trust, teamwork and keeping their standards high – both on the ropes and at home.

Advice to other couples in business?

Communicate, and allocate time every week to check in on both the business and the household. You must separate the two.

www.flyhighropeaccess.com.au

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With Steve and Lanie Marks of Explore Property

Steve and Lanie Marks have just celebrated their 20th anniversary – two decades of love; but also of building businesses together, in a partnership that has changed the property landscape of the Whitsundays.

The pair began in hospitality, running Beaches in Airlie Beach, before entering real estate. Now they have three businesses – Loan Market, Accom Whitsundays, and Explore

Property rentals and sales.

Steve is a company director, a leader who strategizes, builds business and dreams up ideas - he shoots for the stars. Lanie, on the other hand, keeps her feet on the ground, and helps turn those grand ideas into concrete plans. She is a mortgage broker, property manager, and more, all whilst being the CEO of the Marks’ family life. Together, they’re a humble and hardworking team.

The couple transitioned into property after the birth of their first of two sons. Looking to pivot out of the unsociable hours of hospitality, the pair sought work that allowed them to make a change, and build something new.

“Steve was always looking at the real estate section of Airlie Beach. He fell in love with Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach the minute he got here, always following the growth of the town.” Lanie said

“And I was always really interested in real estate, and saw an opportunity to join Ray White, 20 years ago. I worked as a Property Manager and BDM before becoming a mortgage broker and opening Loan Market Whitsunday in 2018.”

Whilst Lanie grew Loan Market, Steve revelled in Project Marketing and became hooked by the satisfaction of seeing his impact growing the town he loved, naming streets and adding development housing.

Four years ago, the pair opened Explore Property, beginning in a small office in Cannonvale before upgrading in 2025, turning an old panel beater’s workshop on Shute Harbour Road into a gorgeous airy space, and growing a team of three to a team of twenty through hard graft and a clear vision.

Just six months ago, the pair further expanded their company and reach with the acquisition of the PRD Rental Business including Residential, Commercial, Storage and Holiday Let Business Accom Whitsunday  – their biggest challenge; but also, their biggest success.

With Lanie and Steve combining their skills, the business has become a unique multi-service agency offering bespoke, one-stop service for their clients.

“I think a lot of real estate agents can be very transactional.” Steve explained.

“So we always ask: How can I help? Every single transaction is different. We collaborate with our owners and tenants and vendors depending on their exact needs and wants- whether they’re moving overseas or interstate, buying an investment property, or holiday home – we give them suggestions and advice in-house, without referrals or extra fees.”

For Lanie and Steve, leading a business as a couple means some of their best strategy meetings pop up unexpectedly.

“We have a theory.” Steve confessed.

“We were on Hamilton Island last week for our wedding anniversary, drinking wine, and we come up with a really good strategy; we went: That's brilliant!

“The best ideas come when you are relaxed, when you step back, and have capacity for them.”

Their top advice to other couples is to maintain clear and independent roles within the business.

“We don't step on each other's toes in in the workspace.” Lanie said.

“He's got his things he excels at. I have mine.”

Lanie highlighted Steve’s business acumen, strategic planning, and quick thinking.

Steve says Lanie has incredible patience and can filter out the best ideas from the crazy ones.

Steve and Lanie have dream-teamed their way to success, with four businesses now growing independently and together, interweaving and creating a new way of approaching retail. After dedicating themselves to the growth of their business, they’ve reached a stage where they can enjoy the dividends.

“You’ve got to take the time to appreciate the accolades of owning a business; pressure is a privilege,” Steve said. “You’ve got to remember that you can't work all the time. You can't lose yourself in the business.”

The pair are now enjoying a rich family life earned through decades of hard work, spending time together and with their boys, finding work life balance and building the team.

And if they get hit with a genius business plan in a spa, at the bar or on the beach? That makes it even better.

What advice would you have for any other couples thinking of going into business together?

Define your roles and trust one another completely to do their job. Understand that there will be mistakes made and find solutions together.

What's the most unusual place you've had a business discussion?

Lanie: On a chairlift, snowboarding in Canada!

Steve: I actually had a really big idea when face down in the snow.

explorepropertywhitsunday.com.au

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With Amy Savage from the Grow As I Go Podcast

Your Wednesday commute just got interesting. Why? Because Amy Savage has launched her passion project.

Driven by a desire to help people feel less alone in the messy middle of life, that universal space where we’re all still figuring things out with every new chapter, Amy has created a podcast called Grow As I Go.

Released every Wednesday at 6am, episodes are designed for people who feel like they haven’t quite cracked their goals yet – but want to grow, learn, and get the most out of life as they live it.

“It’s a space for honest, vulnerable conversations about learning as we go, without pretending we have it all together,” Amy explained.

“It’s for the messy middle part of life that we rarely feel comfortable showing. Most stories get told in hindsight, after the lessons are clear. But life isn’t lived that way. We’re figuring things out in real time, and I wanted to create something that reflects that.

“I’ve had quite a bit of personal adversity over the past decade which really sparked a deeper urge to share. I really think there is so much power in being vulnerable and sharing your experiences because the reality is, hard things happen to all of us, and no one should have to navigate that alone.  

“We all are so busy on this constant treadmill of life, to the point where we don’t often make time for ourselves to pause, reflect, process, and learn lessons. This podcast is an invitation for people to jump off the treadmill for 15-20 minutes each week, to do exactly that.”

Amy has plenty of experience to share.

In her career she has gone far, working with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning for 15 years, where she has held roles including Manager of Economic Development, all while running a successful MC business hosting private events.

“I feel very lucky to say that I genuinely love my job,” Amy shared.  

“It allows me to contribute to regional growth while being part of forward thinking projects that shape the region’s future. Creating a space where people feel safe to grow, learn and be themselves is something I care deeply about. This podcast is really a natural extension of that passion.”

The idea for Grow As I Grow had been on Amy’s mind for over three years, stuck there by a fear of failure we can all relate to.

“I thought that it needed to be perfect and that I needed to have everything figured out before I began,” Amy said.

“Eventually I realized it shouldn’t be about having all the answers or creating something flawless, but more about showing up, being authentic, creating something meaningful – which is the whole vibe this podcast is built on.  

“I’ve always been someone who brings a fun, vibrant energy into everything I do, and I want this podcast to feel the same. Even though we’re talking about real and sometimes heavy stuff, we can also see the light and human side of it all.” 

Describe your personality in three words: 

 Warm, vibrant and authentic

What Advice would you offer young business people?

Stop waiting for the ‘right’ moment and take the leap. It’s not about perfection, it’s about being willing to give things a shot. Every experience, good, hard and unexpected, teaches us something. Life is meant to be lived, not held back from.  

Find Grow As I Go on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts, and hit subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. Find updates on Instagram @growasigopodcast

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